Eel Pie Island Footbridge - Image 1
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Eel Pie Island Footbridge

4.8
·9 reviews·, United Kingdom

A private island sanctuary on the Thames, famed for its artist studios and legendary 1960s music scene, accessible only by footbridge.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Open Studio Weekends

Experience the island's art and history

CrowdMedium
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Eel Pie Island Footbridge - Image 1

Eel Pie Island Footbridge

Best Time

Open Studio Weekends

Experience the island's art and history

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A private island sanctuary on the Thames, famed for its artist studios and legendary 1960s music scene, accessible only by footbridge.

4.8
(9 reviews)

"A unique island with a rich history, offering a glimpse into art and counterculture."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Open Studio Dates

The island is private; access is limited to specific open days. Plan ahead!

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking across the footbridge and exploring the island on foot.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Eel Pie Island Footbridge

Eel Pie Island Footbridge

River Thames, Twickenham

The sole land access to this historic island, offering scenic river views and a gateway to its artistic heart.

Artist Studios & Open Days

Artist Studios & Open Days

Eel Pie Island

Explore a vibrant community of artists showcasing diverse works, from paintings to pottery, during special open studio events.

Counterculture History

Counterculture History

Eel Pie Island

Discover the island's legacy as a 1960s hippie commune and a legendary venue for iconic bands like The Rolling Stones.

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Planning Your Visit

Access & Opening Times

Eel Pie Island is a private island, accessible only by a footbridge or boat. It opens to the public for limited 'Open Studio' events, typically twice a year. Plan your visit around these specific dates to explore the island's art studios and unique history. Instagram+1

Island Etiquette & Transport

No motor vehicles, bicycles, or motorcycles are allowed on Eel Pie Island. All access is on foot via the footbridge, or by boat. Be prepared to carry items if needed, as trolleys are the primary method for moving goods. Instagram

Best Times

When
Open Studio Weekends
Why
Experience the island's art and history
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Enjoy riverside tranquility
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Redemption. #eeltok #eelcheck #eel #eelfeel #eelfeels #eelpit #river #eels #eelguy #tunanz #nz #river #bridgecheck #bridge
@eel_feels
269.1K likes • 2.9M views

🎯 Check Open Studio Dates

The island is private; access is limited to specific open days. Plan ahead! Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking across the footbridge and exploring the island on foot. Instagram

🏝️ Eel Pie Island is an easily accessible island (by footbridge) on the River Thames, located in Twickenham, near Richmond Park 🦌 🥁The island played a key role in the development of British music due to all the music studios there in the 1900s. The island still hosts open studios twice a year, usually in July and December 🎶 🎸There’s actually around 180 Islands altogether on the River Thames wh...
londonxploring
276 likes • 19.1K views
[LINK IN BIO] Eel Pie Island is a private island accessible only via footbridge, and it has many stories to tell. It’s a mysterious place, and it only opens to visitors for a select few dates throughout the year including this weekend!⁠ ⁠ 🔗 Head to the link in our bio for the full details⁠ ⁠ #lifestyle
secret.london
2.1K likes • 215K views

🦢 Bring Bird Feed

Kids love feeding the swans, geese, and ducks from the river steps. Reddit

🚗 No Vehicles Allowed

Remember, no cars, bikes, or motorcycles on the island. Instagram

Eel Pie island is a tiny island on the river Thames accessible only by footbridge or boat. It’s home to a few luxury river view homes, quirky ramshackled cottages, artists studios, a boat yard and rowing club. In the 1960s it was famous for its hippie communes and as a venue for rock bands. Bands such as the Who, Rolling Stones, Yardbirds, Pink Floyd, The Tridents (featuring Jeff Beck) and John Ma...
stevenveganico
9 likes • 248 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Open Studio Dates

The island is private; access is limited to specific open days. Plan ahead! Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking across the footbridge and exploring the island on foot. Instagram

🦢 Bring Bird Feed

Kids love feeding the swans, geese, and ducks from the river steps. Reddit

🚗 No Vehicles Allowed

Remember, no cars, bikes, or motorcycles on the island. Instagram

🎨 Art Lover's Paradise

Explore diverse art forms from local artisans during open studio events. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(9 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the unique charm of Eel Pie Island, accessible via its distinctive footbridge. The island's appeal lies in its artistic community, rich musical history, and tranquil riverside setting. While access is limited to specific open days, the experience is often described as rewarding and memorable, offering a glimpse into a private world of creativity and counterculture.

"Nice little bridge to access the Eel Pie Island. It is a private island. No public allowed"

Babji Vundavilli

"Great little bridge"

J K (JK)

"good place to bring kids. there are swans, pigeons, geese, ducks . You can bring some bread with you and let the kids feed the bread to the birds. there are steps leading to the thames river and you can throw the bread from there"

docfromgalifrey

What People Like

Unique island access
Vibrant artist studios
Rich musical history

What People Dislike

Limited access days

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Eel Pie Island is accessible via a footbridge from Twickenham. There is no public road access, and vehicles are not permitted on the island. You can also reach it by boat. Instagram+1

No, Eel Pie Island is a private island and is generally only open to the public during specific 'Open Studio' events, usually twice a year. Instagram+1

The nearest train station is Twickenham. From there, it's a walk to the footbridge. Many visitors also arrive by bus to Twickenham town center. Instagram

No, bicycles are not allowed on Eel Pie Island. You'll need to leave them before crossing the footbridge. Instagram

Limited street parking may be available in Twickenham, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations and consider public transport due to potential restrictions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Eel Pie Island is typically free during its open studio events, though donations may be welcomed. Always check the official event details for any changes. Instagram

These events are usually held twice a year, often in summer and winter. Specific dates are announced in advance, so keep an eye on local listings or social media. Instagram+1

During open studio events, the island is typically open from around 11 am to 6 pm. Confirm exact times for the specific event you plan to attend. Instagram

As Eel Pie Island is private property, general access outside of scheduled open days is not permitted. Instagram

While entry to the island is usually free, individual artists may have their work for sale. There isn't a general admission fee for the studios themselves. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore artist studios, enjoy the riverside atmosphere, learn about its rich musical and counterculture history, and observe local wildlife. Instagram+1

Yes, families often enjoy visiting. Children can feed the birds from the river steps and explore the unique island environment. Reddit

The studios feature a wide range of art, including oil paintings, metalwork, pottery, and animation, created by resident artists. Instagram

Facilities are limited as it's a private island. Visitors should be prepared for a rustic experience and bring any necessities with them. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted, especially to capture the art and scenery. However, always be respectful of the artists and residents. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no cafes or restaurants on Eel Pie Island itself. Visitors should plan to eat before or after their visit, or bring their own picnic. Instagram

Picnicking is a popular activity, especially during open days. Enjoy the riverside views while you dine. Instagram

Twickenham town center, just across the footbridge, offers various pubs, cafes, and restaurants. The White Cross pub is also nearby. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique footbridge, the diverse artist studios, the riverside scenery, and the island's quirky cottages. Instagram+1

Yes, the island is home to various bird species like swans, geese, and ducks, making it a pleasant spot for wildlife photography. Reddit

It's best to ask the artist's permission before photographing their work. Some may prefer you don't. Instagram

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